Overview
Île Thérèse (Therese Island) lies just under a kilometre off the west coast of Mahé, the largest island of the Seychelles. It is 1.6 km long, covers 0.739 km² (73.9 ha) and rises to 160 m above sea level. Depending on the source, the highest point, Thérèse Peak, is given as up to 164 m.
Administratively it belongs to the Port Glaud district, together with its neighbour Conception. Although the island has no permanent population, it is often visited by tourists, not least for its long sandy beach in the north-east.
The beach is around 700 m long and lined with coconut palms. Behind it rise two rocky peaks that look like a giant staircase. A reef protects the southern side. Because the beach does not face the open ocean, the water is usually calmer than at many beaches on the main island. There is no settlement and no food or drink on the island, which lives from its unspoilt nature. If you are looking for more beaches in the area, you will find them under Dream beaches.
Getting there and getting around
The island can only be reached by boat. There is no ferry or regular service, and there are no roads on the island itself. After landing, you get around on foot.
By boat from Port Launay or Port Glaud
The easiest way is from the small beaches at Port Launay or Port Glaud on the west coast. Local boatmen offer the crossing there and will collect you again after a few hours. The trip takes about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on where you set off from.
The price is negotiated on the spot, and there are no fixed rates. As a rough guide, visitor reports from recent years mention about 800 SCR for the crossing, while trips on a private boat with a snorkelling stop cost considerably more (as of November 2026, without guarantee). Before you step aboard, check whether the price is per person or per boat, whether the return trip is included and at what time you will be picked up.
| Departure point | Crossing | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Port Launay | approx. 20 minutes | Bus from Victoria and the airport, small car park on the beach |
| Port Glaud | approx. 15 minutes | Bus from Victoria, boats on the beach |
| Beau Vallon or Bel Ombre | full-day boat tour | more expensive, usually with a stop at Anse Major |
By bus or hire car to the departure point
You can reach Port Launay by bus on route 9, which takes about 55 minutes from the airport. Buses run from early morning until early evening, less often at weekends and on public holidays. Current times are in the timetable of the Seychelles Public Transport Corporation. Fares and visitor passes change from time to time, and you will find more on our page about travelling by bus. Plan your return so that you are sure to catch the last bus.
With a hire car you drive to Port Glaud via the Sans Soucis cross-island road, or along the coast to Port Launay. Car parks are small, so try to arrive in the morning. If you would rather not haggle over a boat, book a guided tour. You will find more under Boat tours.
Beach, snorkelling and hiking
Swimming and snorkelling
The long beach in the north-east is the main reason to visit. The water is sheltered, and offshore there are corals and rocks with plenty of reef fish. Visitors report seeing turtles on snorkelling trips. At low tide the corals in the shallows are sharp-edged and dangerous, so wear water shoes and do not swim close above the reef. Some visitors also report annoying sandflies on the beach.
The months from April to October, during the south-east trade wind season, are considered the most reliable time for calm, clear water. You can visit the island all year round, though short rain showers are more frequent from November to March. You will find more under best time to travel. For general advice on equipment and spots, see Diving and snorkelling.
Walking across the island
The two peaks invite you to hike over the low hills. Because of the heat, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, wear sturdy shoes and take plenty of water. We could not confirm an officially maintained trail, so expect paths that may be overgrown or steep. You will find more walks on Mahé under Hiking.
Accommodation, food and practical tips
There is no accommodation and there are no restaurants on Île Thérèse. You can stay on the west coast of Mahé, where you will find suitable options under Accommodation on Mahé. For food, you are limited to the picnic you bring with you, and afterwards it is worth visiting a restaurant on the coast, see Restaurants on Mahé.
You only need money for the boat, so bring cash in rupees (see Money and banks). You can stock up beforehand in Victoria or at the small shops along the west coast. Medical help and emergency numbers are listed under Hospital, clinics and emergency numbers. Pack sun protection, a hat, water shoes, snorkelling gear, drinking water and a rubbish bag. The travel checklist has helpful tips.
Day trip or overnight stay
Île Thérèse is a destination for half a day or a full day, and you cannot stay overnight here. Two to four hours is enough for swimming, snorkelling and a short climb. If you plan a picnic, you will stay longer. The visit combines well with the beach at Port Launay and the marine park in front of it, where an entrance fee may apply. Ask locally about current charges.
The small islands of Conception and L’Islette are nearby. If you prefer to see the west coast from land, Port Glaud has several viewpoints with a view of Thérèse. You will find other destinations around Mahé under Islands of the Seychelles.
